The Dallas Cowboys' decision to release both Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah
left the team surprisingly thin at running back. Javonte Williams and Malik Davis are currently the only halfbacks on the initial 53-man roster, making the waiver wire and practice squad market logical avenues for Dallas to explore. With the position taking such a beating throughout the season, hopefully they can get a quality running back to come in and help.Dallas could always bring back Blue and Mafah, but if they're looking at players outside the organization, these players could be high on their list. Dallas has either met with these players during their pre-draft information-gathering process or fit the running scheme offensive coordinator Klayton Adams likes to incorporate
into his offense. Whether they are claimed outright or placed on their practice squad, they will add more talent to this backfield.
Damien Martinez
The Cowboys met with Martinez during the 2025 pre-draft process, giving them familiarity with a player they once considered adding. Martinez brings a skill set Dallas currently lacks. At 217 pounds, he runs with power, finishes through contact, and consistently creates extra yards after first contact. Those traits translate well to the inside-zone and gap concepts Adams prefers.
What separates Martinez from many young power backs is his athleticism. He ran a 4.51-second 40-yard dash while weighing 217 pounds and has enough burst to create explosive plays when he reaches the second level. Martinez also offers enough value in the passing game to stay on the field. He is not a featured receiving back, but he can handle screens, checkdowns, and outlet routes when needed.
If the Cowboys are looking for a developmental power runner with starter upside, Martinez may be the best option available.
Frank Gore Jr.
Gore Jr. lacks elite physical traits, but he does several things well. The former Southern Miss standout wins with vision, patience, and toughness. Despite standing just 5-foot-8, he consistently gets the most out of his blocking and rarely wastes opportunities. He understands how to set up runs and has a knack for turning minimal gains into positive plays.
Gore Jr. also brings value on passing downs. During his college career, he caught 75 passes for 695 yards and four touchdowns while building a reputation as a reliable pass protector. That versatility gives him a chance to contribute quickly if injuries force him into action. He may not have the upside of some of the other names on this list, but he offers dependable depth and a well-rounded skill set.
Jarquez Hunter
Hunter may be the easiest projection into Dallas' offense.
The Cowboys met with Hunter before the 2025 draft and already know what he brings to the table. He combines 4.44 speed with a compact 204-pound frame and runs with the decisiveness coaches look for in a zone-based rushing scheme. Hunter thrives when he can identify a crease and explode through it. His running style fits naturally within inside-zone, counter, and gap-scheme concepts, making his transition to Dallas' offense relatively straightforward.
He also brings value beyond the running game. Hunter caught 68 passes during his Auburn career and has shown he can contribute as a receiver. He is also seen as a capable pass protector, which increases his chances of earning snaps early. If Dallas is looking for a back who can contribute in multiple situations, Hunter could be one of the most appealing players available.
Donovan Edwards
Edwards is the only player on this list without a known pre-draft connection to Dallas, but his skill set makes him worth consideration.
The former Michigan running back offers the most passing-game upside of any player featured here. He ran a 4.44-second 40-yard dash at 205 pounds and brings legitimate dual-threat ability as both a runner and receiver. During his Michigan career, Edwards rushed for 3,058 yards and 30 touchdowns while adding 86 receptions for 797 yards and six touchdowns through the air. Those numbers highlight the versatility that helped make him a key contributor on multiple College Football Playoff teams and a national championship roster.
Edwards fits best in an offense that allows him to get downhill quickly and attack open space. His burst and receiving ability would give Dallas a different skill set than the rest of its backfield. Although he has yet to appear in an NFL regular-season game, the talent remains evident. If the Cowboys want another explosive change-of-pace option, Edwards could make sense as either a waiver claim or practice squad addition.
This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: 4 Waiver wire running backs the Cowboys should pursue
